Night Guard
by Dr. Mehryar Issac Ebrahimi, DDS | Beverly Wilshire Dental Group
Night Guards in Beverly Hills: Protecting Your Teeth While You Sleep
Many people grind or clench their teeth during sleep without realizing it. Over time, this habit can wear down enamel, crack teeth, damage dental work, and leave you waking up with a sore jaw or headaches. At Beverly Wilshire Dental Group, Dr. Ebrahimi provides custom-fitted night guards designed to protect your teeth and help you wake up more comfortably.
What Is a Night Guard?
A night guard is a removable dental appliance, usually made of durable acrylic or similar material, worn over the teeth while you sleep. It creates a protective barrier between the upper and lower teeth so that the forces of grinding (bruxism) and clenching are absorbed by the appliance instead of your natural teeth and restorations. A night guard does not stop the habit itself, but it can greatly reduce the damage it causes.
Signs You May Need a Night Guard
Because grinding often happens during sleep, many patients are unaware of it until a dentist or family member notices. Common signs include:
Worn, flattened, or chipped teeth
Tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
Jaw soreness, tightness, or fatigue, especially in the morning
Frequent headaches, particularly near the temples
Clicking or discomfort in the jaw joint
Indentations along the edges of the tongue or cheeks
Cracked or repeatedly failing fillings, crowns, or veneers
If you notice any of these, Dr. Ebrahimi can examine your teeth and bite to determine whether a night guard is appropriate.
The Benefits of a Custom Night Guard
1. Protects Natural Teeth
By absorbing grinding forces, a night guard helps prevent further wear, chipping, and cracking of tooth enamel.
2. Protects Dental Work
Crowns, veneers, fillings, bonding, and implants represent a significant investment. A night guard helps shield them from excessive biting force, which can extend their lifespan.
3. May Ease Jaw Tension
By keeping the teeth from fully clenching together, a night guard can help reduce muscle strain and morning soreness for some patients.
4. A Comfortable, Secure Fit
A custom guard is made from an impression or digital scan of your teeth, so it fits more precisely and comfortably than most store-bought options.
5. Durable and Long-Lasting
Professionally fabricated guards are typically made from more durable materials than over-the-counter versions and are designed to hold up to nightly use.
How a Custom Night Guard Is Made
Evaluation: Dr. Ebrahimi examines your teeth, bite, and jaw, and discusses your symptoms.
Impression or Digital Scan: A precise model of your teeth is created.
Fabrication: Your guard is custom-made to fit your teeth and bite.
Fitting and Adjustment: The guard is checked for comfort and fit, and any small adjustments are made.
Follow-Up: Periodic checkups ensure the guard continues to fit well and is still doing its job.
Caring for Your Night Guard
Rinse your guard in cool water after each use and brush it gently with a soft toothbrush and mild soap. Avoid hot water, which can warp the material. Store it in a ventilated case when not in use, and keep it away from pets. Bring it to your regular dental visits so Dr. Ebrahimi can check for wear or changes in fit.
Common Myths About Night Guards
Myth: "Night guards stop you from grinding." A night guard protects the teeth from the effects of grinding and clenching, but it doesn't necessarily eliminate the habit itself.
Myth: "A store-bought guard is just as good as a custom one." Over-the-counter guards can offer some protection, but they are often bulky and may fit poorly. A custom guard is shaped to your bite, which generally makes it more comfortable and more likely to be worn consistently.
Myth: "Only people who are very stressed grind their teeth." Stress is one common factor, but grinding and clenching can also be related to bite alignment, sleep-related issues, certain medications, and other causes.
Myth: "If my teeth don't hurt, I'm not grinding." Many people grind without any pain. Wear on the teeth, flattened surfaces, or small chips are often the first signs, and they can be found during a routine exam.
Myth: "A night guard will be too uncomfortable to sleep with." Most patients adjust within a few nights. A properly fitted custom guard is designed to be as comfortable and low-profile as possible.
Myth: "I only need a night guard if I already have damaged teeth." Protecting teeth before significant damage occurs is often easier, and less costly, than repairing them afterward.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I grind my teeth at night? Common clues include a sore jaw in the morning, headaches, worn or chipped teeth, and a partner hearing grinding sounds. A dental exam can also reveal telltale wear patterns.
How long does a night guard last? This varies with the material and how forcefully you grind, but a well-made custom guard often lasts several years. Dr. Ebrahimi will check it at your visits and let you know when it needs to be replaced.
Will a night guard affect my speech or breathing? It's worn during sleep, so speech isn't a concern. A custom guard is designed to be slim and comfortable and should not interfere with normal breathing.
Is a night guard the same as a sleep apnea appliance? No. A night guard protects the teeth from grinding. A sleep apnea oral appliance repositions the jaw to help keep the airway open and requires a diagnosis and prescription from a physician. Dr. Ebrahimi can discuss which, if either, is appropriate for you.
Can I wear a night guard with veneers, crowns, or implants? Yes. In fact, a night guard is often recommended for patients with these restorations to help protect them from excess force.
Do children need night guards? Many children grind their teeth temporarily as their teeth develop, and it often resolves on its own. If you're concerned, Dr. Ebrahimi can evaluate your child and advise on the best approach.
Does dental insurance cover night guards? Coverage varies by plan. Our office can help you understand your benefits.
How often should I have my night guard checked? Bring it to your regular dental checkups so it can be evaluated for fit and wear.
Protect Your Smile While You Sleep
At Beverly Wilshire Dental Group, Dr. Ebrahimi evaluates each patient's teeth, bite, and symptoms before recommending a night guard, so you get a solution tailored to your needs. If you've noticed signs of grinding or clenching, we welcome the opportunity to discuss your options.